Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs Introduce
For Illinois residents seeking more than just a typical fitness center or recreational activity, Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs (ISKC) in Palatine offers a truly meaningful and transformative experience. As a premier sports school and a key point of interest in the Chicagoland area, ISKC is dedicated to the traditional art of Shotokan karate. This isn't just a place to learn self-defense; it's a community where individuals and families can embark on a lifelong journey of physical and mental development. Under the expert guidance of top-tier instructors, including the founder, Sensei DiPasquale, students are taught not only the techniques of karate but also invaluable life lessons that extend far beyond the dojo.
The philosophy at Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs is rooted in the core values of respect, humility, and discipline. The instruction is truly exceptional, as highlighted by numerous long-term students who have seen their lives enhanced through the practice. The dojo has successfully created a culture where students feel like a part of a family, and instructors are viewed as dedicated mentors. This is evident in the fact that many students have been training for over a decade, some starting as children and growing into black belts who now teach with the same care and integrity they received. This continuity and a shared sense of purpose are what make ISKC a special place. The different teaching approaches of each sensei—from a focus on strong fundamentals and personal growth to deep technical expertise and thoughtful guidance—provide students with a well-rounded and comprehensive education in the art of karate.
Karate at ISKC is a way to stay mentally sharp and physically strong. It's a discipline that can keep you going and growing throughout your life. The dedication of the instructors to each student's personal growth, not just their belt rank, is a key component of the ISKC difference. The dojo’s culture is not just about earning belts, but about developing character, discipline, and lifelong bonds.
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs is headquartered at 327 N Eric Dr, Palatine, IL 60067, USA. Its convenient location in the northwest suburbs of Chicago makes it easily accessible for families and individuals in Palatine and the surrounding communities. The dojo's location is a hub for the organization, which also offers classes through various park districts across Chicagoland, providing a widespread and accessible network for those interested in joining.
The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that individuals of all abilities can join and benefit from the training programs. While the dojo's physical location is a central point, the club’s extensive presence in park districts across the Chicago suburbs makes it an incredibly convenient option for many Illinois residents.
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs provides a comprehensive and flexible range of services to suit various needs and schedules.
Karate School: The primary service, offering instruction in the traditional Japanese style of Shotokan karate.
Karate Classes: A wide variety of classes are available, including lessons for adults, children, and a beginner class for new students.
Family Karate: The club provides an excellent opportunity for families to train together, strengthening their bonds while learning a valuable skill.
Online Training: In addition to in-person classes, ISKC offers online training and classes, providing flexibility for students with busy schedules or those who prefer to train from home.
Private Sessions: The club also offers private lessons and private training, allowing for one-on-one instruction to accelerate skill development.
Competition Programs: For those who wish to test their skills, the club offers competition programs that prepare students for tournaments.
Kick Learning: The training includes a mix of strength, cardiovascular, and flexibility exercises, along with learning choreographed forms and self-defense skills.
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs stands out for several key features and highlights that make it a premier choice for martial arts in Illinois.
Exceptional Instruction: The instructors are described as "top notch" and "outstanding," with deep technical expertise and a commitment to personal growth. Many have trained with the club's founder, Sensei DiPasquale, a four-time National Champion.
Meaningful Community: The dojo is known for its culture of respect, humility, and community, where students support each other and forge lifelong bonds.
Comprehensive Curriculum: The programs are well-rounded, focusing on strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and flexibility, in addition to the traditional techniques of karate.
All-Ages Classes: Classes are a mix of young children, teens, and adults, providing an inclusive environment where students can learn and grow together.
Flexible Options: With both in-person and online classes, students have the flexibility to choose a training format that fits their lifestyle.
Commitment to Character: The club's mission goes beyond physical skills to help students develop discipline, confidence, and self-responsibility.
For those who are ready to start their martial arts journey or to learn more, you can contact Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs at the following information.
Address: 327 N Eric Dr, Palatine, IL 60067, USA
Phone: (847) 359-0666
What makes Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs truly worth choosing is its proven ability to transform lives through martial arts. The reviews from real customers are a powerful testament to this. A long-time student and parent shared that karate has "enhanced our lives" and that the different teaching approaches of the senseis provide a "well-rounded way" to train. Another reviewer, who has trained with their daughter for over 11 years, called it "one of the most meaningful experiences of our lives," noting how it has kept them "mentally sharp, physically strong, and brought us closer together." This individual also highlights how the instruction from senseis has been "truly exceptional," with a focus on fundamentals, discipline, and personal growth.
For Illinois families and individuals, ISKC represents a valuable point of interest that offers a unique combination of top-tier instruction and a nurturing community. The fact that students remain with the club for over a decade and return after a long hiatus speaks volumes about the quality and lasting impact of the training. This is a place where you can not only learn practical self-defense skills but also become part of a family that supports and encourages you to be the best version of yourself. By choosing ISKC, you are investing in an experience that builds character, instills discipline, and creates lifelong bonds, making it a premier destination for anyone seeking personal growth in the Chicago area.
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs Services
Sports School
- 30 Minute Class
- Adults Martial Arts
- Beginner Class
- Competition Programs
- Free Trial Classes
- In-Person Classes
- Karate Can
- Karate Classes
- Karate Lessons
- Karate School
- Karate Training
- Kick Learning
- Online Classes
- Online Training
- Weekly Classes
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs Photos


Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs Location
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs
327 N Eric Dr, Palatine, IL 60067, USA
Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I have been training with ISKC since 2020 and I have had a great experience overall. I was returning to Shotokan karate after a 13-year hiatus and my first sensei, Sensei Oshiro, supported me to test as a yellow belt for my first belt test with the club (I had been a brown belt with a previous club). I had my children join when they were 10 and 8 and they have been training for about 3 years. We have been to multiple classes across the club and the senseis are all top notch. I also appreciate how they have different approaches to teaching karate, so when you take classes with different senseis, you are able to work on your karate in a very well-rounded way. We have worked with the wonderful senseis Picchiotti, Brown, Strazza, and Baker in addition to senseis Santos and Oshiro. We love karate and feel that it has enhanced our lives.
February 18 · Jody SikerMy daughter and I have trained with ISKC for over 11 years, and it’s been one of the most meaningful experiences of our lives. We started as white belts and are now both black belts. Karate has kept us mentally sharp, physically strong, and brought us closer together as father and daughter.The instruction is truly exceptional. We’ve had the privilege of learning from several outstanding Sensei, including Sensei Patel, Bajic, Frisvold, and even the founder, Sensei DiPasquale. Each has shaped our journey in a unique and lasting way.We’ve trained the longest with Sensei Patel, who has been a foundational figure in our development. From our very first class, his commitment to strong fundamentals, discipline, and personal growth stood out. Today, we’re honored to volunteer alongside him as he teaches us not just karate—but how to teach with the same care and integrity he brings to every class.Sensei Bajic has been equally instrumental. His deep technical expertise, precision, and thoughtful guidance have pushed us to higher levels, and we’ve developed a close and trusting relationship over the years. His teaching is grounded, methodical, and always encouraging—he brings out the best in his students.While we’ve trained with Sensei Frisvold for a shorter time, he’s been a fantastic addition to our journey. He brings a well-rounded skill set, blending athletic technique with meaningful philosophical insight. His calm demeanor and thoughtful words often stay with us long after class.We’re also fortunate to have trained at times with Sensei DiPasquale, the founder of ISKC. His deep knowledge and vision are evident in the values that permeate the entire organization. It’s clear that the standard he set continues to guide the instructors and students alike.What sets ISKC apart is not just the quality of instruction, but the culture of respect, humility, and community that defines the dojo. It’s not just about earning belts—it’s about developing character, discipline, and lifelong bonds. We’re proud to be part of this dojo.
May 22 · Sohail HasanMy son has been with ISKC for the past 2.5 years. All it took was 1 class to get him hooked. Every sensei we have had the pleasure to work with has been wonderful! They are all so encouraging and really boost his self-confidence. I appreciate the level of respect and discipline they bring to class. Each sensei knows how to push you to bring out your best!After our first nationals tournament, we have come to realize how much of a community ISKC is. It was beyond heartwarming to have higher belts from ISKC come cheer on someone in the club they may have never met. We look forward to many more competitions and years in the ISKC family.
February 19 · Dawn AdamsPractice is great .But I would like to complain about Mr Patel.He is very rude and whenever I ask question he doesn’t answer direct.As I asked ,do you see any improvement,he said it’s not a day or a week thing to judge I will judge on the testing day.I asked him to give me Kata sheet to practice instead of watching videos as my I want my kids to learn from sheet ,he said it is the weirdest thing he has ever heard.He can be giving mental directions to students but not to parents.Parents are not students and also he said coming in for one class in a week is not going to help.
May 13 · Sanober JahanOur son has been going here for many years and we are nothing but grateful and happy with the hard work and dedication put in by all his Sensei's. Our son loves attending classes!! We also participate in tournaments (when we can) which helps build confidence. Thank you for all that you do ISKC.
February 18 · Bhavini Shah
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